A summit of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders urged an immediate Gaza ceasefire on Sunday, following calls for a truce by host Kuwait after nearly 14 months of war in the Palestinian territory.
In the final statement of the summit, the six-member body called for an “immediate and permanent cessation of Israeli fire and military operations” as well as “the delivery of all humanitarian and relief aid and basic needs to the residents of Gaza”.
The meeting comes at a time of acute and ongoing uncertainty for the Middle East following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel and a subsequent war on Gaza.
Kuwaiti Emir Demands Gaza Ceasefire
Earlier, Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmad Al Sabah called for an immediate Gaza ceasefire. He urged the international community to act swiftly to protect innocent civilians, establish safe humanitarian corridors, and deliver urgent aid. The summit brought together leaders of the six-member GCC amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The emir highlighted the pressing need for a ceasefire, especially as the region faces prolonged instability following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza. He emphasized that the ongoing conflict risks spilling over into a broader regional crisis, threatening peace across the Middle East.
Criticism of Inconsistent Global Policies
Sheikh Meshal criticized the “double standards” in the enforcement of international laws and resolutions. According to him, such inconsistencies have severely undermined the region’s stability and security. He urged the global community to uphold fairness and justice in addressing conflicts, as these are essential to restoring trust and order.
Optimism Over Gaza Ceasefire
In a hopeful tone, the Kuwaiti leader welcomed the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. He expressed confidence that this truce would reduce tensions and help de-escalate the ongoing conflict. The ceasefire follows months of cross-border strikes initiated by Hezbollah in support of Hamas, which significantly worsened the regional crisis.
Praise for Regional and Global Efforts
Sheikh Meshal also commended Saudi Arabia for its efforts to establish a global coalition advocating for an independent Palestinian state. Additionally, he acknowledged Iran and the GCC’s constructive collaboration on regional issues, highlighting the importance of collective action in achieving lasting peace.
Regional Support for Gaza Ceasefire
Countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar also welcomed last week’s truce in Lebanon. This agreement brought some relief after a year of intense conflict that caused thousands of casualties and mass displacement.
The summit concluded with calls for unity, humanitarian aid, and equitable action to stabilize the region. Kuwait’s leadership underscored its dedication to peace during a particularly volatile time for the Middle East.
